Over 50 Countries Reportedly Contact US About Trump’s Tariffs
In the aftermath of U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent tariff announcements, there has been a wave of reactions across the globe, with both market disruptions and diplomatic tensions playing out.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent responded to the market disruption caused by Trump’s tariffs during an NBC interview on Meet The Press, stating, “Look, the markets are organic animals. And you never know what the reaction is going to be.” However, he emphasized his satisfaction with the market infrastructure, highlighting that there was record volume on the trading day following the announcement. This suggests that despite the initial turmoil, the financial markets demonstrated resilience and adaptability.
The European Union and Countermeasures
The European Union has made it clear that it will not stand idly by in response to Trump’s tariffs. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen spoke on Sunday following a phone call with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, indicating that the EU is prepared to take proportionate countermeasures against the U.S. tariffs. She assured that the 27-nation bloc would coordinate closely with Britain on security and defense matters, while also expressing concern over Russia’s efforts to stall peace negotiations in Ukraine.
Global Trade Talks and Growing Tensions
According to Kevin Hassett, the director of the U.S. National Economic Council, more than 50 countries have already reached out to the White House to begin trade negotiations. Speaking to ABC News’ This Week, Hassett revealed that the Office of the U.S.
Trade Representative (USTR) had received reports that more than 50 countries are seeking to address the ongoing trade disputes. He said, “I got a report from the USTR last night (the office of the US trade representative) that more than 50 countries have reached out to the president to begin a negotiation.” This underscores the growing global unease as countries scramble to reassess their economic relationships with the U.S.
Also Vietnam has proposed eliminating all tariffs on imports from the U.S. following Donald Trump’s decision to impose a 46% tax on goods from the Southeast Asian country, as stated in a letter from Vietnam’s Communist Party dated April 5.
Domestic Unrest and Widespread Protests
Domestically, the tariff announcements sparked widespread protests across the U.S. The “Hands Off!” demonstrations, organized by over 150 civil rights organizations, labor unions, and other advocacy groups, took place in over 1,200 locations across all 50 states. Protesters expressed their dissatisfaction with Trump’s handling of domestic and foreign trade policies, marking the largest opposition movement to date.
India and Taiwan’s Trade Responses
While some countries are bracing for retaliatory measures, others have signaled different approaches. India, for instance, has opted not to retaliate against Trump’s 26% tariff on its exports to the U.S. An official confirmed that India is exploring avenues for a potential deal under the U.S. tariff order that may offer reprieve based on reciprocal trade actions.
On the other hand, Taiwan’s President has also clarified that there are no plans for reciprocal tariffs against the U.S. Despite facing 32% tariffs on certain Taiwanese goods, key exports such as semiconductors will remain unaffected, ensuring that Taiwan’s vital trade relationship with the U.S. remains intact.
Elon Musk’s Role and Vision for Free Trade
Elon Musk, a close advisor to President Trump and head of the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (D.O.G.E.), weighed in on the trade situation during a video-link appearance at an event hosted by Italy’s right-wing League Party. Musk, speaking to Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, expressed his hope for a future free-trade zone between the U.S. and Europe.
Musk’s comments echo his broader vision of reducing trade barriers and fostering greater global trade cooperation, even as his role in shaping Trump’s policies remains under scrutiny.
The Broader Economic and Political Context
The ongoing trade war and tariffs represent a significant shift in the global economic order. Developing countries across Asia, including Cambodia, Bangladesh, and Laos, are particularly affected by the newly imposed tariffs, with rates as high as 49% in some cases. This marks a stark departure from the U.S.’s previous stance, where trade and economic development were seen as tools to lift developing nations. Critics argue that these new tariffs, combined with cuts to overseas aid, represent a retreat from America’s historical role in supporting global economic growth.
In summary, Trump’s tariff policies are reshaping the global trade landscape, drawing responses from both domestic and international players. With the world bracing for economic fallout and geopolitical shifts, it remains to be seen how these policies will unfold in the coming months and years.
Kosta Gushterov
Reporter at Coindoo
Kosta has been a part of the team since 2021 and has solidified his position with a thirst for knowledge, incredible dedication to his work and a "detective-like" mindset. He not only covers a wide range of trending topics, he also creates reviews, PR articles and educational content. His work has also been referenced by other news outlets.
